Once a Gangster

Once a Gangster is a 2010 Hong Kong film directed by Felix Chong, a multi-talented director known for movies within the crime and action genre. The film stars Ekin Cheng, Jordan Chan, and Alex Fong, leading luminaries in the Hong Kong movie industry who lend an undeniable gravitas and character depth to their roles.

This action-comedy film unearths an engaging tale of crime, leadership, loyalty, and identity. It stands as a satirical tribute and a humorous spoof of the iconic heroic bloodshed genre popularized by the likes of John Woo and Ringo Lam while offering an affair filled with intrigue, wit, and a surprising dose of charm.

The plot centers on the intertwining paths of two central characters Roast Pork (Jordan Chan) and Sparrow (Ekin Cheng). These characters are every bit as unique as the names suggest, with their quirks, motivations, and histories adding to the richness of the narrative.

Roast Pork, once a well-known triad member, is leading a peaceful life operating a successful food business while raising a family. However, when his old underworld ties threaten to pull him back into the life of crime, the stability he's fought hard to maintain is endangered. Exploring his struggle forms a significant part of the narrative.

In contrast, Sparrow, despite being a low-level gangster, dreams of rising up the ladder and becoming a notorious boss. Interestingly, he is also an unwitting candidate for a district council election, where he is pitted against a haughty and corrupt politician. This unexpected situation muddles the waters of his criminal ambitions while introducing a satirical jab at the political system.

Their journeys are linked when they are unwillingly pulled into a power struggle within the triad they are associated with. Whoever gets the leadership position would control the Underworld, a position neither of them is enthusiastic to fill.

Complementing its primary cast, Once a Gangster boasts a strong supporting cast with Alex Fong, Michelle Ye, Wilfred Lau, and Conroy Chan. These individuals portray the many faces of the Hong Kong underworld - from associates and rivals to law enforcement officials and politicians.

One of the critical aspects of this movie is its dynamic cinematography. The movie's action sequences are choreographed brilliantly, with slow-motion and highly stylized shots that amplify the tension and maintain the viewers' interest throughout these high-octane moments.

Additionally, it employs satirical overtones throughout the narrative. Far from being a dark underworld film, Once a Gangster is packed with quirky humor and comical satire. However, the comedic elements do not detract from the grittiness of the gangster world. Instead, it adds a distinctive flavor to the narrative, making it a unique experience for the viewers.

Moreover, the director Felix Chong styles the movie to emulate the classic triad films of the 1980s and 90s. This stylistic choice successfully creates a nostalgic resonance while providing a fresh take through the satirical tone.

Ekin Cheng and Jordan Chan, known for their roles in the classic "Young and Dangerous" series, present remarkable performances, slipping back into their gangland personas effectively, albeit in a vastly different context. Their on-screen chemistry is charismatic, contributing to the overall appeal of the story.

Once a Gangster serves as an enjoyable cinematic journey for fans of the heroic bloodshed genre and anyone who appreciates crime and action films.

In summary, the film delivers an engaging twist on the traditional crime film genre. It strikes a balance between humor and action while delving into the intricacies of the characters' lives - both past and present. It offers a stirring look into the underworld's power struggles while examining its characters' struggles to escape, ascend, and survive. With its engaging narrative, satirical humor, charged performances, and invigorating action sequences, Once a Gangster provides an entertaining and worthwhile cinematic offering.